The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) recently recognized Russ Arena, a founding director of the Massachusetts Business Aviation Association (MBAA) and a business aircraft pilot, with its prestigious Silk Scarf Award. Arena, who currently serves as the executive director of MBAA, has retired from flying after a successful career spanning over four decades. He most recently worked as a contract pilot for Boston Scientific, following 33 years at Raytheon where he held positions such as chief pilot and aircraft manager.

NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen congratulated Arena in a video message, stating, “Russ, you have always led by example. I’m proud that you are part of this elite fellowship of aviators, and I thank you for your indelible contributions to business aviation.” Arena’s dedication to the industry and advocacy for its growth and development have earned him this prestigious award.

Arena’s passion for flying began with his role as an instructor at Northeastern University and later as an assistant chief flight instructor at Wiggins Airways. He then moved to Laurence G. Hanscom Field (BED) and started his career as a charter pilot. BED remained his home airport for the next 43 years of his career.

Aside from his role as executive director of MBAA, Arena also works with organizations such as the Massachusetts Port Authority and the Air Charter Safety Foundation. He is also a consultant for De-Ice and a founding board member of the FAA Aviation Safety Group of Massachusetts. NBAA Northeast Regional Director